Buccal, polar and non-polar spray containing zolipidem

ABSTRACT

Buccal aerosol sprays or capsules using polar and non-polar solvents have now been developed which provide zolpidem for rapid absorption through the oral mucosa, resulting in fast onset of effect. The buccal polar compositions of the invention comprise formulation I: aqueous polar solvent, zolpidem, and optional flavoring agent; formulation II: aqueous polar solvent, zolpidem, optionally flavoring agent, and propellant; formulation III: non-polar solvent, zolpidem, and optional flavoring agent; formulation IV: non-polar solvent, zolpidem, optional flavoring agent, and propellant; formulation V: a mixture of a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent, zolpidem, and optional flavoring agent; formulation VI: a mixture of a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent, zolpidem, optional flavoring agent, and propellant.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a divisional of application Ser. No. 12/576,457,filed Oct. 9, 2009, which is a continuation application of applicationSer. No. 11/384,444, filed Mar. 21, 2006, which is a divisional ofapplication Ser. No. 10/671,715, filed Sep. 29, 2003, which is acontinuation-in-part of application Ser. No. 10/230,060, filed Aug. 29,2002, which is a continuation-in-part of application Ser. No.09/537,118, filed Mar. 29, 2000 which is a continuation-in-part of theU.S. national phase designation of PCT/US97/17899 filed Oct. 1, 1997,the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference herein in theirentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

It is known that certain biologically active compounds are betterabsorbed through the oral mucosa than through other routes ofadministration, such as through the stomach or intestine. However,formulations suitable for such administration by these latter routespresent their own problems. For example, the biologically activecompound must be compatible with the other components of the compositionsuch as propellants, solvents, etc. Many such formulations have beenproposed. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 4,689,233, Dvorsky et al.,describes a soft gelatin capsule for the administration of theanti-coronary drug nifedipine dissolved in a mixture of polyetheralcohols. U.S. Pat. No. 4,755,389, Jones et al., describes a hardgelatin chewable capsule containing nifedipine. A chewable gelatincapsule containing a solution or dispersion of a drug is described inU.S. Pat. No. 4,935,243, Borkan et al. U.S. Pat. No. 4,919,919, Aouda etal, and U.S. Pat. No. 5,370,862, Klokkers-Bethke, describe anitroglycerin spray for administration to the oral mucosa comprisingnitroglycerin, ethanol, and other components. An orally administeredpump spray is described by Cholcha in U.S. Pat. No. 5,186,925. Aerosolcompositions containing a hydrocarbon propellant and a drug foradministration to a mucosal surface are described in U.K. 2,082,457, Su,U.S. Pat. No. 3,155,574, Silson et al., U.S. Pat. No. 5,011,678, Wang etal., and by Pamell in U.S. Pat. No. 5,128,132. It should be noted thatthese references discuss bioavailability of solutions by inhalationrather than through the membranes to which they are administered.

Zolpidem is a imidazopyridine having the structure shown below:

The chemical name for zolpidem isN,N,6-trimethyl-2-p-tolyl-imidaz-o[1,2-a]pyridine-3-acetamide

Zolpidem is a non-benzodiazepine sedative-hypnotic and is used to treatinsomnia. To treat insomnia, zolpidem is typically administered orallyat a dose of between 10 and 25 mg. Typically zolpidem is administered asthe tartrate salt, i.e.,N,N,6-trimethyl-2-p-tolyl-imida-zo[1,2-a]pyridine-3-acetamideL-(+)-tartrate (2:1). Following discontinuation of zolpidem thebeneficial effects on sleep can last for up to a week. Tolerance andphysical dependence is only rarely observed with zolpidem. (Goodman andGilman's The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 9^(th) ed., pp.471-472).

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A buccal aerosol spray or soft bite gelatin capsule using a polar ornon-polar solvent has now been developed which provides biologicallyactive compounds for rapid absorption through the oral mucosa, resultingin fast onset of effect.

The buccal aerosol spray compositions of the present invention, fortransmucosal administration of a pharmacologically active compoundsoluble in a pharmacologically acceptable non-polar solvent comprise inweight % of total composition: pharmaceutically acceptable propellant5-80%, nonpolar solvent 19-85%, active compound 0.05-50%, suitablyadditionally comprising, by weight of total composition a flavoringagent 0.01-10%. Preferably the composition comprises: propellant 10-70%,non-polar solvent 25-89.9%, active compound 0.01-40%, flavoring agent1-8%; most suitably propellant 20-70%, non-polar solvent 25-74.75%,active compound 0.25-35%, flavoring agent 2-7.5%.

The buccal polar aerosol spray compositions of the present invention,for transmucosal administration of a pharmacologically active compoundsoluble in a pharmacologically acceptable polar solvent are alsoadministrable in aerosol form driven by a propellant. In this case, thecomposition comprises in weight % of total composition: aqueous polarsolvent 10-97%, active compound 0.1-25%, suitably additionallycomprising, by weight of total composition a flavoring agent 0.05-10%and propellant: 2-10%. Preferably the composition comprises: polarsolvent 20-97%, active compound 0.1-15%, flavoring agent 0.1-5% andpropellant 2-5%; most suitably polar solvent 25-97%, active compound0.2-25%, flavoring agent 0.1-2.5% and propellant 2-4%.

In another embodiment, the buccal polar aerosol spray compositions ofthe present invention for transmucosal administration of apharmacologically active compound (i.e., those administrable in aerosolform driven by a propellant) comprises a mixture of a polar solvent anda non-polar solvent comprising in weight % of total composition: solvent10-97%, active compound 0.05-50%, propellant 5-80%, and optionally ataste mask and/or flavoring agent 0.01-10%. Preferably the compositioncomprises: solvent 20-97%, active compound 0.1-40%, propellant 10-70%,and taste mask and/or flavoring agent 1-8%; most suitably solvent25-97%, active compound 0.25-35%, propellant 20-70%, and taste maskand/or flavoring agent 2-7.5%. The ratio of the polar solvent to thenon-polar solvent can range from about 1:99 to about 99:1, preferablefrom about 60:40 to about 40:60, and more preferably about 50:50.

The buccal pump spray composition of the present invention, i.e., thepropellant free composition, for transmucosal administration of apharmacologically active compound wherein said active compound issoluble in a pharmacologically acceptable non-polar solvent comprises inweight % of total composition: non-polar solvent 30-99.69%, activecompound 0.005-55%, and suitably additionally, flavoring agent 0.1-10%.

The buccal polar pump spray compositions of the present invention, i.e.,the propellant free composition, for transmucosal administration of apharmacologically active compound soluble in a pharmacologicallyacceptable polar solvent comprises in weight % of total composition:aqueous polar solvent 30-99.69%, active compound 0.001-60%, suitablyadditionally comprising, by weight of total composition a flavoringagent 0.1-10%. Preferably the composition comprises: polar solvent37-98.58%, active compound 0.005-55%, flavoring agent 0.5-8%; mostsuitably polar solvent 60.9-97.06%, active compound 0.01-40%, flavoringagent 0.75-7.5%.

In another embodiment, the buccal pump spray composition (i.e., thepropellant free composition) for transmucosal administration of apharmacologically active compound comprises a mixture of a polar solventand a non-polar solvent comprising in weight % of total compositionsolvent 30-99.69%, active compound 0.001-60%, and optionally a tastemask and/or flavoring agent 0.1-10%. Preferably the compositioncomprises: solvent 37-98.58%, active compound 0.005-55%, taste maskand/or flavoring agent 0.5-8%; more preferably the composition comprisessolvent 60.9-97.06%, active compound 0.01-40%, and taste mask and/orflavoring agent 0.75-7.5%. The ratio of the polar solvent to thenon-polar solvent can range from about 1:99 to about 99:1, preferableabout 60:40 to about 40:60, and more preferably about 50:50.

The soft bite gelatin capsules of the present invention for transmucosaladministration of a pharmacologically active compound, at leastpartially soluble in a pharmacologically acceptable non-polar solvent,having charged thereto a fill composition comprise in weight % of totalcomposition: non-polar solvent 4-99.99%, emulsifier 0-20%, activecompound 0.01-80%, provided that said fill composition contains lessthan 10% of water, suitably additionally comprising, by weight of thecomposition: flavoring agent 0.01-10%. Preferably, the soft bite gelatincapsule comprises: non-polar solvent 21.5-99.975%, emulsifier 0-15%,active compound 0.025-70%, flavoring agent 1-8%; most suitably: nonpolarsolvent 28.5-97.9%, emulsifier 0-10%, active compound 0.1-65.0%,flavoring agent 2-6%.

The soft bite polar gelatin capsules of the present invention fortransmucosal administration of a pharmacologically active compound, atleast partially soluble in a pharmacologically acceptable polar solvent,having charged thereto a composition comprising in weight % of totalcomposition: polar solvent 25-99.89%, emulsifier 0-20%, active compound0.01-65%, provided that said composition contains less than 10% ofwater, suitably additionally comprising, by weight of the composition:flavoring agent 01-10%. Preferably, the soft bite gelatin capsulecomprises: polar solvent 37-99.95%, emulsifier 0-15%, active compound0.025-55%, flavoring agent 1-8%; most suitably: polar solvent44-96.925%, emulsifier 0-10%, active compound 0.075-50%, flavoring agent2-6%.

It is an object of the invention to coat the mucosal membranes eitherwith fine droplets of spray containing the active compounds or asolution or paste thereof from bite capsules.

It is also an object of the invention to administer to the oral mucosaof a mammalian in need of same, preferably man, by spray or bitecapsule, a predetermined amount of a biologically active compound bythis method or from a soft gelatin capsule.

A further object is a sealed aerosol spray container containing acomposition of the non polar or polar aerosol spray formulation, and ametered valve suitable for releasing from said container a predeterminedamount of said composition.

As the propellant evaporates after activation of the aerosol valve, amist of fine droplets is formed which contains solvent and activecompound.

The propellant is a non-Freon material, preferably a C₃₋₈ hydrocarbon ofa linear or branched configuration. The propellant should besubstantially non-aqueous. The propellant produces a pressure in theaerosol container such that under expected normal usage it will producesufficient pressure to expel the solvent from the container when thevalve is activated but not excessive pressure such as to damage thecontainer or valve seals.

The non-polar solvent is a non-polar hydrocarbon, preferably a C₇₋₁₈hydrocarbon of a linear or branched configuration, fatty acid esters,and triglycerides such as miglyol. The solvent must dissolve the activecompound and be miscible with the propellant, i.e., solvent andpropellant must form a single phase at a temperature of 0-40° C. apressure range of between 1-3 atm.

The polar and non-polar aerosol spray compositions of the invention areintended to be administered from a sealed, pressurized container. Unlikea pump spray, which allows the entry of air into the container afterevery activation, the aerosol container of the invention is sealed atthe time of manufacture. The contents of the container are released byactivation of a metered valve, which does not allow entry of atmosphericgasses with each activation. Such containers are commercially available.

A further object is a pump spray container containing a composition ofthe pump spray formulation, and a metered valve suitable for releasingfrom said container a predetermined amount of said composition.

A further object is a soft gelatin bite capsule containing a compositionof as set forth above. The formulation may be in the form of a viscoussolution or paste containing the active compounds. Although solutionsare preferred, paste fills may also be used where the active compound isnot soluble or only partially soluble in the solvent of choice. Wherewater is used to form part of the paste composition, it should notexceed 10% thereof. (All percentages herein are by weight unlessotherwise indicated.)

The polar or non-polar solvent is chosen such that it is compatible withthe gelatin shell and the active compound. The solvent preferablydissolves the active compound. However, other components wherein theactive compound is not soluble or only slightly soluble may be used andwill form a paste fill.

Soft gelatin capsules are well known in the art. See, for example, U.S.Pat. No. 4,935,243, Borkan et al., for its teaching of such capsules.The capsules of the present invention are intended to be bitten into torelease the low viscosity solution or paste therein, which will thencoat the buccal mucosa with the active compounds. Typical capsules,which are swallowed whole or bitten and then swallowed, deliver theactive compounds to the stomach, which results in significant lag timebefore maximum blood levels can be achieved or subject the compound to alarge first pass effect. Because of the enhanced absorption of thecompounds through the oral mucosa and no chance of a first pass effect,use of the bite capsules of the invention will eliminate much of the lagtime, resulting in hastened onset of biological effect. The shell of asoft gelatin capsule of the invention may comprise, for example:gelatin: 50-75%, glycerin 20-30%, colorants 0.5-1.5%, water 5-10%, andsorbitol 2-10%.

The active compound may include, biologically active peptides, centralnervous system active amines, sulfonyl ureas, antibiotics, antifungals,antivirals, sleep inducers, antiasthmatics, bronchial dilators,antiemetics, histamine H-2 receptor antagonists, barbiturates,prostaglandins and neutraceuticals.

The active compounds may also include antihistamines, alkaloids,hormones, benzodiazepines and narcotic analgesics. While not limitedthereto, these active compounds are particularly suitable for non-polarpump spray formulation and application.

The active compounds may also include p-FOX (fatty acid oxidation)inhibitors, acetylcholinesterase inhibitors, nerve impulse inhibitors,anti-cholinergics, anti-convulsants, anti-psychotics, anxiolytic agents,dopamine metabolism inhibitors, agents to treat post stroke sequelae,neuroprotectants, agents to treat Alzheimer's disease,neurotransmitters, neurotransmitter agonists, sedatives, agents fortreating attention deficit disorder, agents for treating narcolepsy,central adregenic antagonists, anti-depression agents, agents fortreating Parkinson's disease, benzodiazepine antagonists, stimulants,neurotransmitter antagonists, tranquilizers, or a mixture thereof.

In one embodiment, the active compound is zolpidem or a pharmaceuticallyacceptable salt thereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1. is a schematic diagram showing routes of absorption andprocessing of pharmacologically active substances in a mammalian system.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The preferred active compounds of the present invention are in anionized, salt form or as the free base of the pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof (provided, for the aerosol or pump spraycompositions, they are soluble in the spray solvent). These compoundsare soluble in the non-polar solvents of the invention at usefulconcentrations or can be prepared as pastes at useful concentrations.These concentrations may be less than the standard accepted dose forthese compounds since there is enhanced absorption of the compoundsthrough the oral mucosa. This aspect of the invention is especiallyimportant when there is a large (40-99.99%) first pass effect.

As propellants for the non polar sprays, propane, N-butane, iso-butane,N-pentane, iso-pentane, and neo-pentane, and mixtures thereof may beused. N-butane and iso-butane, as single gases, are the preferredpropellants. It is permissible for the propellant to have a watercontent of no more than 0.2%, typically 0.1-0.2%. All percentages hereinare by weight unless otherwise indicated. It is also preferable that thepropellant be synthetically produced to minimize the presence ofcontaminants which are harmful to the active compounds. Thesecontaminants include oxidizing agents, reducing agents, Lewis acids orbases, and water. The concentration of each of these should be less than0.1%, except that water may be as high as 0.2%.

Suitable non-polar solvents for the capsules and the non-polar spraysinclude (C₂-C₂₄) fatty acid (C₂-C.₆) esters, C₇-C₁₈ hydrocarbon, C₂-C₆alkanoyl esters, and the triglycerides of the corresponding acids. Whenthe capsule fill is a paste, other liquid components may be used insteadof the above low molecular weight solvents. These include soya oil, cornoil, other vegetable oils.

As solvents for the polar capsules or sprays there may be used lowmolecular weight polyethyleneglycols (PEG) of 400-1000 Mw (preferably400-600), low molecular weight (C₂-C₈) mono and polyols and alcohols ofC₇-C₁₈ linear or branch chain hydrocarbons, glycerin may also be presentand water may also be used in the sprays, but only in limited amount inthe capsules.

It is expected that some glycerin and water used to make the gelatinshell will migrate from the shell to the fill during the curing of theshell. Likewise, there may be some migration of components from the fillto the shell during curing and even throughout the shelf-life of thecapsule.

Therefore, the values given herein are for the compositions as prepared,it being within the scope of the invention that minor variations willoccur.

The preferred flavoring agents are synthetic or natural oil ofpeppermint, oil of spearmint, citrus oil, fruit flavors, sweeteners(sugars, aspartame, saccharin, etc.), and combinations thereof.

The compositions may further include a taste mask. The term “taste mask”as used herein means an agent that can hide or minimize an undesirableflavor such as a bitter or sour flavor. A representative taste mask is acombination of vanillin, ethyl vanillin, maltol, iso-amyl acetate, ethyloxyhydrate, anisic aldehyde, and propylene glycol (commerciallyavailable as “PFC 9885 Bitter Mask” from Pharmaceutical Flavor Clinic ofCamden, N.J.). A taste mask in combination with a flavoring agent isparticularly advantageous when the active compound is an alkaloid sincealkaloids often have a bitter taste.

The active substances include the active compounds selected from thegroup consisting of cyclosporine, sermorelin, octreotide acetate,calcitonin-salmon, insulin lispro, sumatriptan succinate, clozepine,cyclobenzaprine, dexfenfluramine hydrochloride, glyburide, zidovudine,erythromycin, ciprofloxacin, ondansetron hydrochloride, dimenhydrinate,cimetidine hydrochloride, famotidine, phenyloin sodium, phenyloin,carboprost thromethamine, carboprost, diphenhydramine hydrochloride,isoproterenol hydrochloride, terbutaline sulfate, terbutaline,theophylline, albuterol sulfate and neutraceuticals, that is to saynutrients with pharmacological action such as but not limited tocamitine, valerian, echinacea, and the like.

In another embodiment, the active compound is a p-FOX (fatty acidoxidation) inhibitor, acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, nerve impulseinhibitor, anti-cholinergic, anti-convulsant, anti-psychotic, anxiolyticagent, dopamine metabolism inhibitor, agent to treat post strokesequelae, neuroprotectant, agent to treat Alzheimer's disease,neurotransmitter, neurotransmitter agonist, sedative, agent for treatingattention deficit disorder, agent for treating narcolepsy, centraladregenic antagonist, anti-depression agent, agent for treatingParkinson's disease, benzodiazepine antagonist, stimulant,neurotransmitter antagonist, tranquilizer, or a mixture thereof.

In one embodiment the active compound is a p-FOX inhibitor. A suitablep-FOX inhibitor for use in the buccal sprays of the invention includes,but is not limited to, ranolazine.

In one embodiment the active compound is an acetylcholinesteraseinhibitor. Suitable acetylcholinesterase inhibitors for use in thebuccal sprays of the invention include, but are not limited to,galantamine, neostigmine, physostigmine, and edrophonium.

In one embodiment the active compound is a nerve impulse inhibitor.Suitable nerve impulse inhibitors for use in the buccal sprays of theinvention include, but are not limited to, levobupivacaine, lidocaine,prilocaine, mepivacaine, propofol, rapacuronium bromide, ropivacaine,tubocurarine, atracurium, doxaurium, mivacurium, pancuronium,vercuronium, pipecuronium, and rocuronium.

In one embodiment the active compound is an anti-cholinergic. Suitableanti-cholinergics for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, amantadine, ipratropium, oxitropium, anddicycloverine.

In one embodiment the active compound is an anti-convulsant. Suitableanti-convulsants for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, acetazolamide, carbamazepine, clonazepam,diazepam, divalproex (valproic acid), ethosuximide, lamotrignine acid,levetriacetam, oxcarbazepine, phenobarbital, phenyloin, pregabalin,primidone, remacemide, trimethadione, topiramate, vigabatrin, andzonisamide.

In one embodiment the active compound is an anti-psychotic. Suitableanti-psychotics for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, amisulpride, aripiprazole bifemelane,bromperidol, clozapine, chlorpromazine, haloperidol, iloperidoneloperidone, olanzapine, quetiapine, fluphenazine, fumarate, risperidone,thiothixene, thioridazine, sulpride, and ziprasidone,

In one embodiment the active compound is an anxiolytic agent. Suitableanxiolytic agents for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, amitryptiline, atracurium, buspirone,chlorzoxazone, clorazepate, cisatracurium, cyclobenzaprine, eperisone,esopiclone, hydroxyzine, mirtazapine, mivacurium, pagoclone, sulperide,zaleplon, and zopiclone.

In one embodiment the active compound is a dopamine metabolisminhibitor. Suitable dopamine metabolism inhibitors for use in the buccalsprays of the invention include, but are not limited to, entacapone,lazebemide, selegiline, and tolcapone.

In one embodiment the active compound is an agent to treat post strokesequelae. Suitable agents to treat post stroke sequelae for use in thebuccal sprays of the invention include, but are not limited to,glatiramer, interferon beta 1A, interferon beta 1B, estradiol, andprogesterone.

In one embodiment the active compound is a neuroprotectant. Suitableneuroprotectants for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, donepezil, memanine, nimodipine, riluzole,rivastigmine, tacrine, TAK147, and xaliproden.

In one embodiment the active compound is an agent to treat Alzheimer'sdisease. Suitable agents to treat Alzheimer's disease for use in thebuccal sprays of the invention include, but are not limited to,carbidopa, levodopa, tacrine, donezepil, rivastigmine, and galantamine.

In one embodiment the active compound is a neurotransmitter. Suitableneurotransmitters for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include,but are not limited to, acetylcholine, serotonin, 5-hydroxytryptamine(5-HT), GABA, glutamate, aspartate, glycine, histamine, epinephrine,norpinephrine, dopamine, adenosine, ATP, and nitric oxide.

In one embodiment the active compound is a neurotransmitter agonist.Suitable neurotransmitter agonists for use in the buccal sprays of theinvention include, but are not limited to, almotriptan, aniracetam,atomoxetine, benserazide, bromocriptine, bupropion, cabergoline,citalopram, clomipramine, desipramine, diazepam, dihydroergotamine,doxepin duloxetine, eletriptan, escitalopram, fluvoxamine, gabapentin,imipramine, moclobemide, naratriptan, nefazodone, nefiracetamacamprosate, nicergoline, nortryptiline, paroxetine, pergolide,pramipexole, rizatriptan, ropinirole, sertraline, sibutramine,sumatriptan, tiagabine, trazodone, venlafaxine, and zolmitriptan.

In one embodiment the active compound is a sedative. Suitable sedativesfor use in the buccal sprays of the invention include, but are notlimited to, dexmedetomidine, eszopiclone, indiplon, zolpidem, andzaleplon.

In one embodiment the active compound is an agent for treating attentiondeficit disorder. Suitable agents for treating attention deficitdisorder for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include, but arenot limited to, amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, methylphenidate, andpemoline.

In one embodiment the active compound is an agent for treatingnarcolepsy. Suitable agents for treating narcolepsy for use in thebuccal sprays of the invention include, but are not limited to,modafinil and mazindol.

In one embodiment the active compound is a central adregenicantagonists. A suitable central adregenic antagonists for use in thebuccal sprays of the invention includes, but is not limited to,mesoridazine.

In one embodiment the active compound is an anti-depression agent.Suitable anti-depression agents for use in the buccal sprays of theinvention include, but are not limited to, amitriptyline, amoxapine,bupropion, clomipramine, clomipramine, clorgyline, desipramine, doxepin,fluoxetine, imipramine, isocarboxazid, maprotiline, mirtazapine,nefazodone, nortriptyline, paroxetine, phenelzine, protriptyline,sertraline, tranylcypromine, trazodone, and venlafaxine.

In one embodiment the active compound is an agent for treatingParkinson's disease. Suitable agents for treating Parkinson's diseasefor use in the buccal sprays of the invention include, but are notlimited to, amantadine, bromocriptine, carvidopa, levodopa, pergolide,and selegiline.

In one embodiment the active compound is a benzodiazepine antagonist. Asuitable benzodiazepine antagonist for use in the buccal sprays of theinvention includes, but is not limited to, flumazenil.

In one embodiment the active compound is a neurotransmitter antagonist.A suitable neurotransmitter antagonist for use in the buccal sprays ofthe invention includes, but is not limited, to deramciclane.

In one embodiment the active compound is a stimulant. Suitablestimulants for use in the buccal sprays of the invention include, butare not limited to, amphetamine, dextroamphetamine, dinoprostone,methylphenidate, methylphenidate, modafinil, and pemoline.

In one embodiment the active compound is a tranquilizer. A suitabletranquilizer for use in the buccal sprays of the invention includes, butis not limited to, mesoridazine.

In a another embodiment, the active compound is zolpidem or apharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. In one embodiment, the activecompound is zolpidem tartrate.

Typically, when zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereofis the active compound the buccal spray contains from about 0.01 to 20weight/weight (w/w) percent zolpidem, more preferably 0.1 to 15 w/wpercent zolpidem, and most preferably 0.2 to 10 w/w percent zolpidem.

The invention further relates to a method of treating insomnia in apatient by spraying the oral mucosa of the patient with atherapeutically effective amount of a buccal spray comprising zolpidemor a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof.

The formulations of the present invention comprise an active compound ora pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof. The term “pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts” refers to salts prepared from pharmaceuticallyacceptable non-toxic acids or bases including organic and inorganicacids or bases.

When an active compound of the present invention is acidic, salts may beprepared from pharmaceutically acceptable non-toxic bases. Salts derivedfrom all stable forms of inorganic bases include aluminum, ammonium,calcium, copper, iron, lithium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, sodium,zinc, etc. Particularly preferred are the ammonium, calcium, magnesium,potassium, and sodium salts. Salts derived from pharmaceuticallyacceptable organic non-toxic bases include salts of primary, secondary,and tertiary amines, substituted amines including naturally occurringsubstituted amines, cyclic amines and basic ion-exchange resins such asarginine, betaine, caffeine, choline, N,N dibenzylethylenediamine,diethylamine, 2-diethylaminoethanol, 2-dimethylaminoethanol,ethanolamine, ethylenediamine, N-ethylmorpholine, N-ethylpiperidine,glucamine, glucosamine, histidine, isopropylamine, lysine,methyl-glucosamine, morpholine, piperazine, piperidine, polyamineresins, procaine, purine, theobromine, triethylamine, trimethylamine,tripropylamine, etc.

When an active compound of the present invention is basic, salts may beprepared from pharmaceutically acceptable non-toxic acids. Such acidsinclude acetic, benzenesulfonic, benzoic, camphorsulfonic, citric,ethane-sulfonic, fumaric, gluconic, glutamic, hydrobromic, hydrochloric,isethionic, lactic, maleic, mandelic, methanesulfonic, mucic, nitric,pamoic, pantothenic, phosphoric, succinic, sulfuric, tartaric,p-toluenesulfonic, etc. Particularly preferred are citric, hydrobromic,maleic, phosphoric, sulfuric, and tartaric acids.

In the discussion of methods of treatment herein, reference to theactive compounds is meant to also include the pharmaceuticallyacceptable salts thereof. While certain formulations are set forthherein, the actual amounts to be administered to the mammal or man inneed of same are to be determined by the treating physician.

The invention is further defined by reference to the following examples,which are intended to be illustrative and not limiting.

The following are examples of certain classes. All values unlessotherwise specified are in weight percent.

EXAMPLES Example 1 Biologically Active Peptides Including PeptideHormones

A. Cyclosporine lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount cyclosporine  5-50 10-3515-25 water  5-20 7.5-50  9.5-12  ethanol  5-60 7.5-50  10-20polyethylene glycol 20-60 30-45 35-40 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

B. Cyclosporine Non-Polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount cyclosporine  1-50  3-40 5-30 MIGLYOL ® 20 25 30-40 Polyoxyethylated 20 25 30-40 castor oilButane 25-80 30-70 33-50 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

C. Cyclosporine non polar bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount cyclosporine  1-35  5-2510-20 olive oil 25-60 35-55 30-45 polyoxyethylated 25-60 35-55 30-45oleic glycerides flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

D. Cyclosporine bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount cyclosporine  5-50 10-3515-25 polyethylene 20-60 30-45 35-40 glycol glycerin  5-30 7.5-25  10-20propylene glycol  5-30 7.5-25  10-20 flavors 0.1-10  1-8 3-6

E. Sermorelin (as the acetate) lingual spray

most amount Amounts preferred amount preferred sermorelin (as theacetate) .01-5   .1-3   .2-1.0 mannitol  1-25  5-20 10-15 monobasicsodium phosphate, 0.1-5    1-31  .5-2.5 dibasic sodium phosphate0.01-5   .05-3   0.1-0.5 water ethanol  5-30 7.5-25  9.5-15 polyethylene glycol 20-60 30-45 35-40 propylene glycol  5-25 10-20 12-17flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

F. Octreotide acetate (Sandostatin) lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount octreotide acetate0.001-0.5   0.005-0.250 0.01-0.10 acetic acid 1-10 2-8 4-6 sodiumacetate 1-10 2-8 4-6 sodium chloride 3-30 .5-25 15-20 ethanol 5-307.5-20  9.5-15  water 15-95  35-90 65-85 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

G. Calcitonin-Salmon lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount calcitonin-salmon0.001-5    0.005-2     01-1.5 ethanol  2-15  3-10   7-9.5 water 30-9550-90 60-80 polyethylene glycol  2-15  3-10   7-9.5 sodium chloride2.5-20   5-15   10-12.5 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

H. Insulin lispro, lingual spray

most preferred Amounts amount preferred amount insulin 20-60  4-55  5-50glycerin 0.1-10  0.25-5   0.1-1.5 dibasic sodium phosphate  1-15 2.5-10 4-8 m-cresol,  1-25  5-25  7.5-12.5 zinc oxide 0.01-0.25  .05-0.150.075-0.10  m-cresol 0.1-1   0.2-0.8 0.4-0.6 phenol trace trace traceamounts amounts amounts ethanol  5-20 7.5-15   9-12 water 30-90 40-8050-75 propylene glycol  5-20 7.5-15   9-12 flavors 0.1-5   0.5-3  0.75-2   adjust pH to 7.0-7.8 with HCl or NaOH

Example 2 CNS Active Amines and their Salts: Including but not Limitedto Tricyclic Amines, GABA Analogues, Thiazides, PhenothiazineDerivatives, Serotonin Antagonists and Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors

A. Sumatriptan succinate lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount sumatriptan succinate0.5-30   1-20 10-15 ethanol  5-60 7.5-50  10-20 propylene glycol  5-307.5-20  10-15 polyethylene glycol  0-60 30-45 35-40 water  5-30 7.5-20 10-15 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

B. Sumatriptan succinate bite capsule

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount sumatriptan succinate0.01-5   0.05-3.5  0.075-1.75  polyethylene glycol 25-70 30-60 35-50glycerin 25-70 30-60 35-50 flavors 0.1-10  1-8 3-6

C. Clozapine lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount clozapine 0.5-30   1-2010-15 ethanol  5-60 7.5-50  10-20 propylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20  10-15polyethylene glycol  0-60 30-45 35-40 water  5-30 7.5-20  10-15 flavors0.1-5   1-4 2-3

D. Clozapine non-polar lingual spray with propellant

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount clozapine 0.5-30   1-2010-15 MIGLYOL ® 20-85 25-70 30-40 Butanol  5-80 30-75 60-70 flavors0.1-5   1-4 2-3

E. Clozapine non-polar lingual spray without propellant

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount clozapine 0.5-30   1-2010-15 MIGLYOL ®   70-99.5 80-99 85-90 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

F. Cyclobenzaprine non-polar lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount cyclobenzaprine (base)0.5-30   1-20 10-15 MIGLYOL ® 20-85 25-70 30-40 Iso-butane 15-80 30-7560-70 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

G. Dexfenfluramine hydrochloride lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount dexfenfluramine HCl  5-307.5-20  10-15 ethanol  5-60 7.5-50  10-20 propylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20 10-15 polyethylene glycol  0-60 30-45 35-40 water  5-30 7.5-20  10-15flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 3 Sulfonylureas

A. Glyburide lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount glyburide 0.25-25  0.5-20  0.75-15   ethanol  5-60 7.5-50  10-20 propylene glycol  5-307.5-20  10-15 polyethylene glycol  0-60 30-45 35-40 water 2.5-30   5-20 6-15 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

B. Glyburide non-polar bite capsule

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount glyburide 0.01-10  0.025-7.5  0.1-4   olive oil 30-60 35-55 30-50 polyoxyethylated oleic30-60 35-55 30-50 glycerides flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 4 Antibiotics Anti-Fungals and Anti-Virals

A. Zidovudine [formerly called azidothymidine (AZT) (Retrovir)]non-polar lingual spray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount zidovudine 10-50 15-4025-35 Soya oil 20-85 25-70 30-40 Butane 15-80 30-75 60-70 flavors0.1-5   1-4 2-3

B. Erythromycin bite capsule

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount erythromycin 25-65 30-5035-45 polyoxyethylene glycol  5-70 30-60 45-55 glycerin  5-20 7.5-15   10-12.5 flavors  1-10 2-8 3-6

C. Ciprofloxacin hydrochloride bite capsule

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount ciprofloxacin 25-65 35-5540-50 hydrochloride glycerin  5-20 7.5-15   10-12.5 polyethylene glycol120-75  30-65 40-60 flavors  1-10 2-8 3-6

D. zidovudine [formerly called azidothymidine (AZT) (Retrovir)] lingualspray

most preferred Amounts preferred amount amount zidovudine 10-50 15-4025-35 water 30-80 40-75 45-70 ethanol  5-20 7.5-15   9.5-12.5polyethylene glycol  5-20 7.5-15   9.5-12.5 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 5 Anti-Emetics

A. Ondansetron hydrochloride lingual spray

preferred most preferred Amounts amount amount ondansetron hydrochloride 1-25  2-20 2.5-15  citric acid monohydrate  1-10 2-8 2.5-5   sodiumcitrate dihydrate 0.5-5   1-4 1.25-2.5  water  1-90  5-85 10-75 ethanol 5-30 7.5-20  9.5-15  propylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20  9.5-15 polyethylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20  9.5-15  flavors  1-10 3-8   5-7.5

B. Dimenhydrinate bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount dimenhydrinate 0.5-30  2-25  3-15 glycerin  5-20 7.5-15    10-12.5 polyethylene glycol 45-9550-90 55-85 flavors  1-10 2-8 3-6

C. Dimenhydrinate polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount dimenhydrinate  3-50 4-40  5-35 water  5-90 10-80 15-75 ethanol  1-80  3-50  5-10polyethylene glycol  1-80  3-50  5-15 sorbitol 0.1-5   0.2-40  0.4-1.0aspartame 0.01-0.5  0.02-0.4  0.04-0.1  flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 6 Histamine H-2 receptor antagonists

A. Cimetidine hydrochloride bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount cimetidine HCl 10-6015-55 25-50 glycerin  5-20 7.5-15    10-12.5 polyethylene glycol 20-9025-85 30-75 flavors  1-10 2-8 3-6

B. Famotidine lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount famotidine  1-35  5-307-20 water 2.5-25   3-20 5-10 L-aspartic acid 0.1-20   1-15 5-10polyethylene glycol 20-97 30-95 50-85  flavors 0.1-10    1-7.5 2-5 

C. Famotidine non-polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount famotidine  1-35  5-30 7-20 Soya oil 10-50 15-40 15-20 Butanol  5-80 30-75 45-70polyoxyethylated 10-50 15-40 15-20 oleic glycerides flavors 0.1-5   1-42-3

Example 7 Barbiturates

A. Phenyloin sodium lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount phenytoin sodium 10-6015-55 20-40 water 2.5-25   3-20  5-10 ethanol  5-30 7.5-20  9.5-15 propylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20  9.5-15  polyethylene glycol  5-30 7.5-20 9.5-15  flavors  1-10 3-8   5-7.5

B. Phenyloin non-polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount phenytoin  5-45 10-4015-35 MIGLYOL ® 10-50 15-40 15-20 Butane 15-80 30-75 60-70polyoxyethylated 10-50 15-40 15-20 glycerides flavors 0.1-10  1-8  5-7.5

Example 8 Prostaglandins

A. Carboprost tromethamine lingual spray

preferred most preferred Amounts amount amount carboprost tromethamine0.05-5   0.1-3   0.25-2.5  water 50-95 60-80 65-75 ethanol  5-20 7.5-15  9.5-12.5 polyethylene glycol  5-20 7.5-15   9.5-12.5 sodium chloride 1-20  3-15 4-8 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3 pH is adjusted with sodiumhydroxide and/or hydrochloric acid

B. Carboprost non-polar lingual spray

Amounts amount preferred most preferred amount carboprost 0.05-5  0.1-3   0.25-2.5  MIGLYOL ® 25-50 30-45 35-40 Butane  5-60 10-50 20-35polyoxyethylated 25-50 30-45 35-40 oleic glycerides flavors 0.1-10  1-8  5-7.5

Example 9 Neutraceuticals

A. Carnitine as bite capsule (contents are a paste)

Amounts amount preferred most preferred amount carnitine fumarate 6-8030-70 45-65 soya oil 7.5-50  10-40 12.5-35   soya lecithin 0.001-1.0 0.005-0.5    01-0.1 Soya fats 7.5-50  10-40 12.5-35   flavors  1-10 2-83-6

B. Valerian as lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount valerian extract 0.1-10 0.2-7   0.25-5   water 50-95 60-80 65-75 ethanol  5-20 7.5-15   9.5-12.5polyethylene glycol  5-20 7.5-15   9.5-12.5 flavors  1-10 2-8 3-6

C. Echinacea as bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount echinacea extract 30-8540-75 45-55 soya oil 7.5-50  10-40 12.5-35   soya lecithin 0.001-1.0 0.005-0.5   01-0.1 Soya fats 7.5-50  10-40 12.5-35   flavors  1-10 2-83-6

D. Mixtures of ingredients

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount magnesium oxide 15-4020-35 25-30 chromium picolinate 0.01-1.0  0.02-0.5  .025-0.75 folic acid.025-3.0  0.05-2.0  0.25-0.5  vitamin B-12 0.01-1.0  0.02-0.5  .025-0.75vitamin E 15-40 20-35 25-30 Soya oil 10-40 12.5-35   15-20 soya lecithin0.1-5   0.2-4   0.5-1.5 soya fat 10-40 15-35 17.5-20  

Example 10 Sleep Inducers (Also CNS Active Amine)

A. Diphenhydramine hydrochloride lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount diphenhydramine   3-50. 4-40  5-35 HCl water 0 10-80 50-75 ethanol  1-80  3-50  5-10polyethylene glycol  1-80  3-50  5-15 Sorbitol 0.1-5   0.2-4   0.4-1.0aspartame 0.01-0.5  0.02-0.4  0.04-0.1  flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 11 Anti-Asthmatics-Bronchodilators

A. Isoproterenol Hydrochloride as polar lingual spray

preferred most preferred Amounts amount amount isoproterenolHydrochloride 0.1-10   .2-7.5 0.5-6   water  5-90 10-80 50-75 ethanol 1-80  3-50  5-10 polyethylene glycol  1-80  3-50  5-15 Sorbitol 0.1-5  0.2-4   0.4-1.0 aspartame 0.01-0.5  0.02-0.4  0.04-0.1  flavors 0.1-5  1-4 2-3

B. Terbutaline sulfate as polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount terbutaline sulfate0.1-10  0.2-7.5 0.5-6   water  5-90 10-80 50-75 ethanol  1-10 2-82.5-5   Sorbitol 0.1-5   0.2-4   0.4-1.0 aspartame 0.01-0.5  0.02-0.4 0.04-0.1  flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

C. Terbutaline as non-polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount terbutaline 0.1-10 0.2-7.5 0.5-6   MIGLYOL ® 25-50 30-45 35-40 isobutane  5-60 10-50 20-35polyoxyethylated 25-50 30-45 35-40 oleic glycerides flavors 0.1-10  1-8  5-7.5

D. Theophylline polar bite capsule

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount theophylline  5-50 10-4015-30 polyethylene glycol 20-60 25-50 30-40 glycerin 25-50 35-45 30-40propylene glycol 25-50 35-45 30-40 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

E. Albuterol sulfate as polar lingual spray

Amounts preferred amount most preferred amount albuterol sulfate 0.1-10 0.2-7.5 0.5-6   water  5-90 10-80 50-75 ethanol  1-10 2-8 2.5-5  Sorbitol 0.1-5   0.2-4   0.4-1.0 aspartame 0.01-0.5  0.02-0.4  0.04-0.1 flavors 0.1-5   1-4 2-3

Example 12 Polar Solvent Formulations Using a Propellant

A. Sulfonylurea

Amount Preferred Amount Most-Preferred Amount glyburide 0.1-25% 0.5-15%  0.6-10%  Ethanol 40-99% 60-97% 70-97% Water 0.01-5%   0.1-4%  0.2-2%   Flavors 0.05-10%   0.1-5%   0.1-2.5% Propellant  2-10% 3-5%3-4%

B. Prostaglandin E (vasodilator)

Preferred Most-Preferred Amount Amount Amount prostaglandin E₁10.01-10%   0.1-5%   0.2-3%   Ethanol 10-90% 20-75% 25-50% Propyleneglycol  1-90%  5-80% 10-75% Water 0.01-5%   0.1-4%   0.2-2%   Flavors0.05-10%   0.1-5%   0.1-2.5% Propellant  2-10% 3-5% 3-4%

C. Promethazine (antiemetic, sleep inducer, and CNS active amine)

Preferred Most-Preferred Amount Amount Amount promethazine  1-25%  3-15% 5-12% Ethanol 10-90% 20-75% 25-50% Propylene glycol  1-90%  5-80%10-75% Water 0.01-5%   0.1-4%   0.2-2%   Flavors 0.05-10%   0.1-5%  0.1-2.5% Propellant  2-10% 3-5% 3-4%

D. Meclizine

Preferred Most-Preferred Amount Amount Amount meclizine  1-25%  3-15% 5-12% Ethanol  1-15%  2-10% 3-6% Propylene glycol 20-98%  5-90% 10-85%Water 0.01-5%    0.1-4%   0.2-2%   Flavors 0.05-10%   0.1-5%   0.1-2.5%Propellant  2-10% 3-5% 3-4%

Example 13 Zolpidem Formulations

A. A propellant free zolpidem formulation containing a polar solvent hasthe following formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem tartrate 2.5 Propylene glycol 15Glycerol 10 Bitter mask 0.2 Benzalkonium chloride 0.1 Citrate buffer(1N, pH 6) 8 Ethanol QS 100 mL

B. A zolpidem formulation in a polar solvent with a propellant has thefollowing formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem tartrate 2.5 Ethanol 35 Glycerol 10Bitter mask 0.2 Butane QS 100

C. A propellant free zolpidem formulation in a mixture of a polar and anon-polar solvent has the following formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem tartrate 0.5 MIGLYOL ® 15 Lemon oil 10Ethanol QS to 100 mL

D. A zolpidem formulation in a mixture of a polar solvent and anon-polar solvent with a propellant can be made according to thefollowing formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem tartrate 0.5 Liquid paraffin 15 Lemonoil 10 Ethanol 40 Butane QS 100

E. A propellant free zolpidem formulation in a non-polar solvent can bemade according to the following formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem Tartrate 0.2 Lemon oil 0.1 MIGLYOL ® Qsto 100

F. A zolpidem formulation in a non-polar solvent with a propellant canbe made according to the following formula:

Component Percent (w/w) Zolpidem Tartrate 0.2 Lemon oil 0.1 MIGLYOL ® 50Butane Qs to 100

1-62. (canceled)
 63. A method of administering zolpidem to a mammal to provide transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa of the mammal to the systemic circulatory system of the mammal, comprising: spraying the oral mucosa of the mammal with a buccal spray composition comprising in weight percent of the composition: zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an amount of between 0.5 and 55 percent by weight of the total composition; and a non-polar solvent in an amount between 30 and 99 percent by weight of the total composition; and wherein said spraying the oral mucosa results in transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa to the systemic circulatory system of said mammal.
 64. The method of claim 63, wherein the composition further comprises a taste mask and/or flavoring agent in an amount between 0.1 and 10 percent by weight of the total composition.
 65. The method of claim 63, wherein the non-polar solvent is selected from the group consisting of (C₂-C₂₄) fatty acid (C₂-C₆) esters, C₇-C₁₈ hydrocarbons of linear or branched configuration, C₂-C₆ alkanoyl esters, and triglycerides of C₂-C₆ carboxylic acids.
 66. The method of claim 65, wherein the polar solvent comprises a triglyceride.
 67. The method of claim 64, wherein the flavoring agent is selected from the group consisting of synthetic or natural oil of peppermint, oil of spearmint, citrus oil, fruit flavors, sweeteners, and mixtures thereof.
 68. The method of claim 63, wherein the amount of the spray is predetermined.
 69. A method of administering zolpidem to a mammal to provide transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa of the mammal to the systemic circulatory system of the mammal, comprising: spraying the oral mucosa of the mammal with a buccal spray composition comprising in weight percent of the composition: zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an amount between 0.05 and 50 percent by weight of the total composition; and a non-polar solvent in an amount between 19 and 85 percent by weight of the total composition; and a propellant in an amount between 5 and 80 percent by weight of the total composition, wherein said propellant is a C₃ to C₈ hydrocarbon of linear or branched configuration; and wherein said spraying the oral mucosa results in transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa to the systemic circulatory system of said mammal.
 70. The method of claim 69, wherein the composition further comprises a taste mask and/or flavoring agent in an amount of between 0.1 and 10 percent by weight of the total composition.
 71. The method of claim 70, wherein the flavoring agent is selected from the group consisting of or natural oil of peppermint, oil of spearmint, citrus oil, fruit flavors, sweeteners, and mixtures thereof.
 72. A method of administering zolpidem to a mammal to provide transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa of the mammal to the systemic circulatory system of the mammal, comprising: spraying the oral mucosa of the mammal with a buccal spray composition comprising in weight percent of the composition: zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an amount between 0.01 and 40 percent by weight of the total composition; a non-polar solvent in an amount between 25 and 89 percent by weight of the total composition; a propellant in an amount between 10 and 70 percent by weight of the total composition, wherein said propellant is a C₃ to C₈ hydrocarbon of linear or branched configuration; and a taste mask and/or flavoring agent is present in an amount between 1 and 8 percent by weight of the total composition; and wherein said spraying the oral mucosa results in transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa to the systemic circulatory system of said mammal.
 73. The method of claim 72, wherein the propellant is present in an amount between 20 and 70 percent by weight of the total composition, the non-polar solvent is present in an amount between 25 and 75 percent by weight of the total composition, the zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is present in an amount from between 0.25 and 35 percent by weight of the total composition, and the taste mask and/or flavoring agent is present in an amount between 2 and 7.5 percent by weight of the total composition.
 74. The method of claim 72, wherein the propellant is selected from the group consisting of propane, n-butane, iso-butane, n-pentane, iso-pentane, neo-pentane, and mixtures thereof.
 75. The method of claim 72, wherein the propellant is n-butane or iso-butane and has a water content not more than 0.2 percent and a concentration of oxidizing agents, reducing agents, Lewis acids, and Lewis bases of less than 0.1 percent.
 76. The method of claim 72, wherein the solvent is selected from the group consisting of (C₂-C₂₄) fatty acid (C₂-C₆) esters, C₇-C₁₈ hydrocarbons of linear or branched configuration, C₂-C₆ alkanoyl esters, and triglycerides of C₂-C₆ carboxylic acids.
 77. The method of claim 76, wherein the solvent is a triglyceride.
 78. The method of claim 72, wherein the amount of the spray is predetermined.
 79. A method of administering zolpidem to a mammal to provide transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa of the mammal to the systemic circulatory system of the mammal, comprising: spraying the oral mucosa of the mammal with a buccal spray composition comprising in weight percent of the composition: zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an amount between 0.05 and 50 percent by weight of the total composition; a mixture of a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent in an amount between 10 and 97 percent by weight of the total composition, wherein the ratio of the polar solvent to the non-polar solvent ranges from 1:99 to 99:1; and a propellant in an amount between 5 and 80 percent by weight of the total composition, wherein said propellant is a C₃ to C₈ hydrocarbon of linear or branched configuration; and wherein said spraying the oral mucosa results in transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa to the systemic circulatory system of said mammal.
 80. The method of claim 79, wherein the composition further comprises a taste mask and/or flavoring agent is present in an amount between 0.01 and 10 percent by weight of the total composition.
 81. The method of claim 80, wherein the propellant is present in an amount between 10 and 70 percent by weight of the total composition, the solvent is present in an amount between 20 and 97 percent by weight of the total composition, the zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof is present in an amount from between 0.1 and 40 percent by weight of the total composition, and the taste mask and/or flavoring agent is present in an amount between 1 and 8 percent by weight of the total composition.
 82. The method of claim 79, wherein the propellant is selected from the group consisting of propane, n-butane, iso-butane, n-pentane, iso-pentane, neo-pentane, and mixtures thereof.
 83. The method of claim 82, wherein the propellant is n-butane or iso-butane and has a water content of not more than 0.2 percent and a concentration of oxidizing agents, reducing agents, Lewis acids, and Lewis bases of less than 0.1 percent.
 84. The method of claim 79, wherein the polar solvent is selected from the group consisting of polyethylene glycols having a molecular weight between 400 and 1000, C₂ to C₈ mono- and poly-alcohols, and C₇ to C₁₈ alcohols of linear or branched configuration and the non-polar solvent is selected from the group consisting of (C₂-C₂₄) fatty acid (C₂-C₆) esters, C₇-C₁₈ hydrocarbons of linear or branched configuration, C₂-C₆ alkanoyl esters, and triglycerides of C₂-C₆ carboxylic acids.
 85. A method of administering zolpidem to a mammal to provide transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa of the mammal to the systemic circulatory system of the mammal, comprising: spraying the oral mucosa of the mammal with a buccal spray composition comprising in weight percent of the composition: zolpidem or a pharmaceutically acceptable salt thereof in an amount between 0.001 and 60 percent by weight of the total composition; and a mixture of a polar solvent and a non-polar solvent in an amount between 30 and 99.69 percent by weight of the total composition, wherein the ratio of the polar solvent to the non-polar solvent ranges from 1:99 to 99:1; and wherein said spraying the oral mucosa results in transmucosal absorption of a pharmacologically effective amount of zolpidem through the oral mucosa to the systemic circulatory system of said mammal.
 86. The method of claim 85, wherein the composition further comprises a taste mask and/or flavoring agent is present in an amount between 0.01 and 10 percent by weight of the total composition. 